U.S. President Donald Trump has ordered the reopening and expansion of the infamous Alcatraz prison, which was shut down more than 60 years ago. Located on a remote island in San Francisco Bay, the prison was originally established in 1934 and closed in 1963 due to high operating costs and deteriorating infrastructure.
In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump stated, “Dangerous criminals used to be locked up in Alcatraz to protect American citizens. We are bringing it back.” He added that the prison will house the country’s most violent and dangerous offenders and said he had directed the Justice Department, FBI, Homeland Security, and the Bureau of Prisons to coordinate the reopening.
Speaking to reporters, Trump emphasized Alcatraz’s historical significance, calling it a “symbol of law and order.”
However, the decision has sparked controversy. Former House Speaker and California Democrat Nancy Pelosi criticized the move, stating that Alcatraz is now a popular national park and tourist site and should not be repurposed as a prison.
Alcatraz was once considered America’s most secure prison due to its isolated location, strong currents, and freezing waters. According to FBI records, no inmate ever successfully escaped from the facility during its operation.